Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

Introduction

This Spiced Hot Cocoa is a cozy, anti-inflammatory drink perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting boost. Rich with warming spices like turmeric and cinnamon, it soothes while satisfying your chocolate cravings in a healthy way.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• A pinch of ground ginger
• A pinch of ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A small cinnamon stick (optional for garnish)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for an added kick)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, pour the almond milk and warm it over medium heat. Make sure the milk does not boil.
2. Step 2: Gradually whisk in the cocoa powder until fully dissolved and evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: Add the honey, ground cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir continuously to blend the spices well.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat and simmer the mixture for about 3-5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Step 6: Taste the cocoa and adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more honey or cayenne pepper if desired.
7. Step 7: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and garnish with a small cinnamon stick or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra flavor boost.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, spicy warmth.

Tips & Variations

• Use full-fat coconut milk instead of almond milk for a creamier texture.
• For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Add a splash of espresso or coffee for a mocha twist.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper carefully for heat; start with a pinch to avoid overpowering the drink.
• If fresh turmeric is available, grate a small amount instead of ground turmeric for a more vibrant flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the spice blend. Avoid boiling when reheating to preserve the flavors and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, including dairy milk or other plant-based milks like oat or soy. Adjust sweetness as needed since different milks may affect the overall flavor.

What does the black pepper do in this recipe?

Black pepper helps enhance the absorption of turmeric’s beneficial compounds and adds a subtle warmth, balancing the spice blend without overpowering the cocoa flavor.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 72 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink is a cozy, health-boosting beverage featuring unsweetened almond milk enriched with cocoa and a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and a hint of black pepper. Naturally sweetened with raw honey or maple syrup, this drink offers comforting flavors with potential anti-inflammatory benefits, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a soothing cup.

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Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• A pinch of ground ginger
• A pinch of ground black pepper
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for an added kick)

Garnish

• 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm the Milk: In a medium saucepan, pour the almond milk and warm it over medium heat. Be careful not to let the milk boil to preserve its texture and flavor.
2. Dissolve Cocoa Powder: Gradually whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until it is fully dissolved and evenly mixed into the milk.
3. Add Sweetener and Spices: Add the raw honey or maple syrup along with ground cinnamon, turmeric, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir continuously to blend all the spices evenly into the mixture.
4. Simmer to Meld Flavors: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the spices and cocoa to infuse the milk with their flavors.
5. Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add a smooth, aromatic note to the drink.
6. Adjust Taste: Taste the cocoa and adjust sweetness or spice levels by adding more honey or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you desire extra heat.
7. Serve: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and optionally garnish with a small cinnamon stick or an additional pinch of cayenne pepper for an enhanced flavor profile.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting and warming properties of this spiced anti-inflammatory drink.

Notes

• Use almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Adjust sweetener to your preference or omit for a less sweet drink.
• The black pepper helps increase the bioavailability of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cayenne pepper is optional and adds a spicy kick; use cautiously if sensitive to heat.
• Do not boil the milk to prevent curdling and preserve delicate flavors.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: General/Healthy

Keywords: spiced hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory drink, turmeric cocoa, cinnamon hot chocolate, healthy beverage, warm drink, dairy-free hot cocoa, almond milk cocoa